AccorHotels celebrated the official launch of its latest property SO/ Auckland last night with an exclusive event attended by VIP guests and media.

Slated to open its doors in October 2018, the 130-key property will feature a restaurant and three bars, a spa, fitness centre and a 20m indoor heated pool.

The property occupies the former Reserve Bank building which housed the country’s gold stockpile. The vaults within the building have been transformed into a range of unique meeting and function spaces.

According to SO Auckland General Manager Stephen Gould, the hotel will “shatter the conventional norms and become a must visit destination in Auckland for locals and visitors alike”.

“New Zealand’s tourism industry is benefitting from strong growth in outbound travel from traditional markets like Australia, USA and the UK. Overall the Asia Pacific region is also growing, particularly the Chinese market,” Gould said.

“As the biggest city and the main international air hub, Auckland is a popular choice for international travellers and the America’s Cup will only enhance this standing.

“We are positive about the future for hospitality in Auckland and we look forward to aiding the city’s ambitions of being a must-visit destination in the South Pacific,” he said.

So Auckland’s French-inspired restaurant on the 15th floor will boast a refined ambience complemented by panoramic views of the harbour, a walk-in wine cellar and inspired cuisine. The restaurant will bring a new calibre of sky-high dining to New Zealand culinary landscape.

Every SO collaborates with a renowned designer for key elements of the hotel, and SO Auckland continues this legacy.

The hotel’s signature designer will remain a secret for now.